from Chris Johnston of Sportsnet,
All indications at Monday’s morning skate suggested that backup Peter Budaj would get the start in Game 2 against the New York Rangers. He had a long chat with goalie coach Stephane Waite at the end of the session and was the first to leave the ice – normally a sign that he would play.
That would be the safe move. The expected move. However, when you dig a little deeper into the past of the two goaltenders it’s clear that Tokarski offers Montreal the best chance at pulling off an upset victory over New York.
The 24-year-old has played in a world junior championship, a Memorial Cup and a Calder Cup. And he’s won them all. That big-game experience is far more important than his inexperience at the NHL level. As a former coach of his told Sportsnet: "The kid is a winner. I am a big Tokarski fan."
Budaj, by comparison, has appeared in just eight total playoff games in his 13-year professional career. He’s a longtime NHL goalie, yes, but there isn’t anything in his body of work that suggests he can back the Habs to four wins in the next games under considerable pressure.
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